On Monday, October 5th, St. Joseph School students and families came together to mark the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi with their pets’ blessing. St. Francis of Assisi was a 13th-century friar and preacher known as the patron saint of animals and the environment. In honor of his memory and St. Francis’ love for all of God’s creations, families bring their pets to church for a special ceremony referred to as the “Blessing of the Animals.”
The celebration is always a memorable event for the St. Joseph School students. This year, children and parents gathered on the Basilica steps with their pets, which were blessed by Headmaster and Pastor, Rev. Grzegorz Chodkowski. Following the blessing, Fr. Chodkowski reflected on animals and how they were given to us by God as help and support in our daily lives. “They are a gift,” he stated. “When, on the Feast of St. Francis, we bless the animals in the prayer of thanksgiving, we express to God our gratitude for these wonderful gifts. In the same act of prayer, we also ask Him to look after our animal friends. For many of us, animals are like family members, so we also want the best for them, including God’s grace.”
According to the website, Catholic Concern for Animals, all pet lovers may conduct a blessing. They can recite a simple prayer, such as: “Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures. You called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air, and animals on the land. You inspired St. Francis to call all of them his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless this pet. By the power of your love, enable it to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen.”
To view additional photos from the Blessing, please click HERE.
